Tofuku-ji Temple

東福寺

Kyoto's #1 autumn foliage temple with over 2,000 maple trees creating a sea of red. One of Kyoto's Five Great Zen Temples. Founded 1236. Features Japan's oldest and largest Sanmon gate (National Treasure, 1425). Famous Tsutenkyo Bridge offers breathtaking valley views.

Visit: 1-2 hours normal season, 2-3 hours in autumn due to crowds and wanting to savor views

Entrance: Temple grounds free, Tsutenkyo Bridge & Kaisando Hall 600 yen, Hojo Garden 500 yen, Combo ticket 1,000 yen (recommended)

Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Apr-Oct until 4:30 PM), November peak: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM, December-March: 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM

Highlights & Must-See Features

Tsutenkyo Bridge view over valley of 2,000+ maples (iconic autumn photo)
Four different Zen gardens at Hojo (North, South, East, West - each unique)
Sanmon gate - Japan's oldest and largest (1425, National Treasure)
Kaisando Hall with beautiful moss garden
Best autumn foliage in all of Kyoto
Engetsukyo Bridge (free area, also beautiful in autumn)

📍 How to Get There

Nearest Station

Tofukuji Station (JR Nara Line / Keihan Line) - 10 minutes walk

Step-by-Step Directions

1 From Kyoto Station: JR Nara Line to Tofukuji (2 minutes, 150 yen)
2 From Keihan Railway: Tofukuji Station
3 From station: 10 minute walk following signs through residential area
4 Peak autumn (mid-Nov to early Dec): Arrive before 9 AM opening or face 1-2 hour queues

Location & Maps

🗺️ Interactive map - zoom and pan to explore

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Latitude: 34.97681

Longitude: 135.773773

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Best Time to Visit

Mid to late November for peak autumn colors - absolutely spectacular but extremely crowded. Arrive before 8:30 AM opening. Spring and summer peaceful with greenery. Early December still good with fewer crowds.